Holistic Dog Health and Supplements for Dogs

Pembroke Welsh Corgi Health Problems

2011-10-03T22:50:00.000-07:00

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is an adorable breed that many people love to own. If you are planning to adopt a Pembroke Welsh Corgi, it is important to know about Pembroke Welsh Corgi health problems in advance so that you know how to deal with these various disorders if the need arises. The earlier the canine sickness is detected, the more options for treatments are available for your dog.

Pembroke Welsh Corgi

Fortunately, there are not a lot of Pembroke Welsh Corgi health problems that are life threatening. This a sturdy breed with fairly good genetics. If you give him a good diet and regular exercise, corgis are able to live for up to 15 years.

Pembroke Welsh Corgi Eye Problems

Many corgis seem to contract eye problems. Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) is a hereditary disorder that affects the rods behind the retina tissues of the eye. The eye will look cloudy and the dog will experience vision impairment eventually leading to blindness. Fortunately, although this is still untreatable, it is not painful or life threatening to dogs.

Hip Dysplasia in the Pembroke Welsh Corgi

There are several breeds that are prone to hip dysplasia, and the corgi is one such animal. Hip dysplasia can be caused by abnormal skeletal formation, or improper treatment of trauma sustained by the dog in his limbs. Inflammation in the joints and cartilage can be very painful and the dog will show signs like lameness, limping and intolerance to physical activity.

The best way to impede the progress of hip dysplasia and canine arthritis for that matter, is by feeding your Pembroke Welsh Corgi healthy food and keeping his weight low. Corgis gain weight easily so ensure that you do not overfeed him. Take him out for daily walks to maintain ideal weight, as well as giving him a constructive release for excess energy. He will be healthier and your home will be cleaner when you do. If you look after him well, your Pembroke Welsh Corgi will be less prone to health problems.

For other breed information, go to www.akc.org

How to Prevent and Treat Canine Bladder Stones

2011-07-23T04:08:00.000-07:00

Dogs can suffer from bladder stones at some time in their life. Those which are over the age of two years, particularly those with ages between 5 and 12 are even more susceptible to this condition. It also seems that some breeds are more prone to contracting canine bladder stones including Shih Tzus, Miniature Schnauzers, Lhasa apsos, Miniature Poodles, and Yorkshire Terriers.

Canine oxalate bladder stones are believed to have a genetic link. The formation of these stones is caused by the production of defective nephrocalcin, a substance in the urine which naturally hinders the formation of urinary stones. The stones can also be caused by the accumulation of minerals in the urinary tract, which could be caused by infection or other urinary problems. This condition is most common in males although this could also happen in females.

Often, the treatment for this problem in pets is simple but may differ according to the kind of stone that is present which are usually either oxalate or struvite. However, there are also instances that the animal would have to undergo surgery or other medical procedures in order to get rid of the stones.

The first step in treating canine bladder stones is to take the dog to the vet. The vet will perform appropriate tests to determine the real cause behind the problem. When the vet has come up with proper diagnosis, it is then that he will provide proper treatment. The treatment will depend on what kind of stone is present in the bladder. If the bladder stones are small in size, the vet may just prescribe certain medications and prescribe a change in diet that could help soften the stones. The vet may also perform a procedure where he will squeeze the dog’s bladder to induce the stones out of the pet’s system. In instances where the stones are big, surgical procedures may be needed.

Even after surgery and treatment, canine bladder stones can occur again. Thus, it is imperative that owners take precautionary measures to address the problem. Here are some ways to prevent and treat canine bladder stones:

1. Change your dog’s diet. If you have been giving it processed food, start giving it organic food or you may cook your own homemade recipe. Processed food may have ingredients that can contribute to the formation of bladder stones and it will surely help if you will stop feeding the pet with that kind of food.

2. Provide ample amount of clean filtered water everyday. As everyone knows, water flushes out any unwanted organisms and toxins inside the body. It also prevents the formation of urinary stones and helps keep the urine pH at a certain level.

3. Give natural supplements daily. Natural supplements such as UTI-Free products have ingredients that can strengthen the immune system and which can help prevent the formation of stones in the bladder. These products also have ingredients that can help treat the occurrences of urinary problems in pets. Regular use of these natural supplements can boost the overall good health of pets.

Bladder stones are life-threatening if not treated immediately. However, they can be prevented and treated with the help of proper medications and natural methods such as stated above.

Kennel Cough Symptoms

2010-10-12T05:19:00.000-07:00

Generally speaking when pets are in close proximity to each other, and one contracts Kennel Cough, then a large number of the others will come down with the symptoms as well, since this is so easily communicable.

Yes, highly contagious describes Kennel Cough. It is caused by a virus that infects the upper respiratory tract. It can also lead to a bacterial infection, which is why vets sometimes prescribe antibiotics for Kennel Cough treatment.

Cats and dogs can contract Kennel Cough in public places such as the grooming salon, doggie day care, dog parks, puppy mills, boarding facilities, and catteries etc.

The problem is, as with almost all viruses, there'll be no clue that anything is wrong until your pet becomes sick since you can't see the virus with the naked eye; and with the incubation period being anywhere from 2-14 days, you may have a hard time tracing back your foot steps to calculate just where your cat or dog may have picked up the virus.

The Kennel Cough symptoms that you should be on the look-out for are as follows:

* A constant, dry hacking cough that may resemble a "honking" type of noise
* Gagging or vomiting after minimal physical activities or on pressure on the windpipe
* Sneezing
* There may be a watery, runny discharge from the nose
* There may also be fever
* Lethargy is less common, but can be present, and may indicate a severe case of kennel cough.

All of this sounds bad, but the one good thing is this generally is NOT a life-threatening issue. You will be able to get your pets better again by using a simple Kennel Cough home remedy that is easy to use, requires no specialized equipment, is needle-free, and organic.

There are several kennel cough treatments available, but make sure to find out if they are chemical-based drugs - if that is what they are, then don't be surprised to see side-effects (both short- and long-term), and this will just make matters even worse as you'll now have additional problems to deal with.

No worries, we found a safe, effective natural Kennel Cough remedy that will have your pets back on their feet (or under your feet) in full spirits again after a few treatments of easy drops that you put in some fun foods or liquids they like. Just two times per day for a week and those hacking coughs will be gone - in fact, a couple of doses is often all you need to see some relief.

Learn more about this little hidden gem of an organic Kennel Cough treatment and get your cat or dog some greatly-needed relief today.

Blue Nose Pitbull Care Tips

2010-09-05T00:41:00.000-07:00

If you’re reading this, chances are you have in your home a beautiful blue nose pitbull—good choice. Blue pitbulls are fantastic family pets that are worth every second and penny spent on them. They are loving, affectionate and great with people—and as the responsible owner that we are, we need to know what we can do to ensure their quality of life as long as they are in our care. Read on and use these super helpful blue nose pitbull care tips for your pet’s best health.

You have to see to it that your pet receives periodic physical check-ups with the vet. When you do this, you are lowering the risk of him acquiring a canine disease that might escalate to a more serious matter when not detected and treated early enough. Pitbull terriers are a pretty healthy bunch but don’t neglect necessary health precautions like yearly vaccinations and using the healthiest, natural products on them.

Give them food that are healthy and of excellent quality. Experts maintain that the best diet for pitbulls should include a lot of meat and a generous serving of the freshest vegetables and fruits. The high levels of energy of this animal demands that he has enough protein and fat in his system. Dogs also will benefit greatly from a strong immune system from moisture laden fare that will ward off bacterial infections that often try to attack them.

Some people assume that pitbulls are dangerous because they are always so vigorous and they have the image of being aggressive fighter dogs. Let us clear this misconception right now. Pitbulls may not get along really well with other dogs, but they have a great relationship with people. When you see domineering and aggressive pitbulls, or any canine for that matter, it is the result of the lack of socialization skills taught them. Train your pet to be sociable early by bringing him around new places and people until he is comfortable with them.

Blue pitbulls are known for their vivacity and sometimes extreme energy. This makes him fun to be around with but it can be detrimental because if he stays too long not doing anything, he can release built-up energy in destructive forms. Bring him out for some physical activities for 15-30 minutes each day to avoid this from happening.

Keep your dog well-groomed at all times. It doesn’t take a lot to groom pitbulls because they are not too fussy and they have shorter hair that do not shed too much. Give him a thorough bath about once or twice a month with products containing natural ingredients and a mild formulation. Comb their hair daily. This not only encourages better blood flow, it stimulates the natural oils found underneath the skin—giving his coat a nice shine to it.

Blue pitbulls are just some of the most awesome pets one can ever have. Find the best blue nose pitbull care tips here.

With proper blue nose pitbull care, you can expect an average of 12 years of happy and healthy living for your pet. Use these great tips to get your pet ling out his best life right now—it will be an investment well worth it!

Natural Heartworm Treatment and Prevention

2010-09-04T23:47:00.000-07:00

Some people may think that heartworm is not as serious as other canine sicknesses but if one does not properly address this in a timely manner, it can escalate to more critical health risks that can result in death. Find out more about effective natural heartworm treatment and heartworm prevention steps you can undertake to keep your pet safe today.

Heartworm is a relatively common condition for dogs and cats during certain months of the year. Some people may think that it is not as serious as other canine sicknesses but if one does not properly address this in a timely manner, it can escalate to more critical health risks that can result to death. Find out more about effective heartworm prevention steps you can undertake to keep your pet safe today.

Not all of you might know what heartworm is. This is when a parasitic worm gets into the dog’s system, usually transmitted by a mosquito. When the worm fully matures, it can reach as long as 7 to 11 inches. It usually lodges itself into the heart, obstructing blood flow and causing serious damage to the heart. When this has not been treated properly, it can do irreversible damage to the heart and lungs.

Now, because the heartworm parasite is transmitted through mosquitoes, an excellent preventative method is to repel mosquitoes away from your pet. Some vets may prescribe drugs that kill off parasite larvae in his system. However, this is actually worse for the animal because the chemicals found in that pesticide, no matter how low a dosage it may initially be, it will add up and eventually impair your dog’s internal systems. A natural heartworm treatment is a better alternative to use.

Garlic is an often used mosquito repellant, thus very effective in treating heartworm. Crush and chop up a couple of cloves of garlic and sprinkle it over your dog’s meals regularly. If garlic is too pungent for your taste, then aromatherapy scents work just as well. Mosquitoes, parasites and ticks all hate the smell of peppermint, lavender, tea tree oil and cedar wood among others. Lightly mist a blend of water with tea tree oil over your dog’s collar, legs, and behind his ears.

A good diet is the best medicine you can give your dog. A good diet makes a healthy dog and mosquitoes are not likely to bite healthy animals. Serve fresh and raw food rich in essential vitamins and minerals that boost his immune system. A robust immune system will ensure that infections and harmful elements do not remain in your dog’s body for long.

Find supplements that will complement your dog’s diet. Wormwood, Tumeric Root and Spearmint are great natural heartworm treatment elements you can use. Black Walnut is known for its cleansing and anti-parasitic properties that are beneficial for pets suffering from heartworm. Also look for natural herbs that strengthen your dog’s liver and circulatory functions.

Heartworm prevention can be done through maintaining regular visits to the vet. This is especially important if you live in a humid area where mosquitoes and parasites are more rampant. Your vet will advise you on great products that can help your animal enjoy a better quality of life. Also look for pet-care sites that offer helpful tips on how to keep your dog healthy and strong at all times. Enjoy a healthy and happy dog today!

Uncover the Secret of Pitbull Training All Experts Use

2010-09-04T23:42:00.000-07:00

If you are reading this article right now, you probably have a pitbull terrier at home and you think he is absolutely fantastic, right? They are generally low-maintenance, fun and affectionate canines that are well worth the time and money you spend on them. You love them the way they are but now you want more—obedience training. So what is the best way to train blue pitbulls?

All dogs can be trained—you read right, ALL dogs. Some people won’t agree with me but that’s only because they might have had bad experiences in teaching their pets because the methods they used were wrong. What you need to understand is that dogs are dogs and to successfully educate them, you must learn to use their mindsets to your best advantage. You will succeed in pitbull training when you use positive reinforcement.

What exactly does it mean to use positive training? This is using positive energy to reinforce a command or desirable behavior. If your dog completes the task you set out for him the right way, lavish him with attention and praise. Pitbulls are very people friendly and they love pleasing you. The problem is really not that they are stubborn and hard to educate—it is that they do not always understand what you want with them that’s why he cannot properly execute the command asked of him.

Therefore it is critical that you be constant and repetitive in the manner and words you use in training him. Obviously, dogs aren’t gifted with stellar linguistic skills like some of us, so be as simple and forthright in the commands you use on him. Repetition makes for better understanding so be unfailing in your patience towards your dog as you commence in obedience training. Use the same phrases and techniques consistently and your dog will get it soon enough.

If there is a behavior you want to correct, check first what is causing that behavior. It is seldom that canines are difficult without reason. For instance, your dog might be barking too much or is doing damage to furniture inside your home—the probable cause for this is that he is bored and doesn’t have anywhere to release pent-up energy. Sometimes a tired pitbull is really a good pet to have. You don’t want him overly fatigued, but you want him tired enough so that his usual high energy doesn’t translate to destructive and aggressive behavior.

Now, it is not only physical stimulus that pitbulls respond to, it is also very important that you engage him mentally as well. Keep school as fun and interesting for him by making it proactive. Only take 15 minutes at a time whenever you train him, otherwise you will lose his attention and further training will be futile. Be creative and utilize space without too much going on to lessen distraction.

Remember, great pitbull training tips is futile without the firm hand of the responsible master. Of course be kind, but make sure your dog knows you’re the boss of the house. When you establish your position as his head, training will be a lot easier. Now that you have all these helpful tips, go use them and have fun with your loving and happy pet!

Basic Pet Diabetic Supplies For Proper Diabetes Management

2010-06-14T02:18:00.000-07:00

Diabetes—it is a potentially crippling canine disease that affects many of our dogs. It is caused by the deficiency of the dog’s body to produce sufficient insulin. Sometimes the dog’s body is not able to properly respond to the insulin produced by the pancreas - which gives the same result. This disease is usually inherent by nature so curing it completely is very seldom possible.

While your pet might have to live with this condition for the rest of his years, the good news is you can manage it well enough so that the animal can still enjoy a normal and happy life. The most important things you will need in controlling canine diabetes is to establish is a healthy diet, regular exercise and insulin therapy.

Many people take their pets in to get their insulin shots from a licensed vet. If you are able to do this then that is great. However, many people are unable to have these visits because of lack of time or funds. Whatever the reasons, do not worry—you can manage your dog’s insulin therapy yourself. Here are the essential pet diabetes supplies you will need to know about.

You will need insulin. The vet will inform you of the right kind of insulin your pet needs, as well as educate you on proper handling and storage of it. You must never alter from the dosage and frequency that the vet has given for the dog. Some people get insulin travel packs which are basically to transport insulin while keeping it refrigerated. The packs are not especially necessary but are useful if you have them.

Insulin syringes have different gauges—ask which ones are necessary and do not veer away from it. You might make a mistake which can cause serious health problems. After using the syringe, dispose of it and do not recycle-- contamination or infection may occur. Place used syringes in a sharps container until you can properly dispose of it. If a sharps container is unavailable, use a large soda bottle temporarily.

Urine glucose test strips are used to inspect if the glucose levels are spilling over to the urine. You can find these in most drugstores; you will need to check which one is appropriate because the same test strips are used by humans who have diabetes also.

A glucose source should also be included in the pet diabetes supplies kit in hypoglycemic emergencies. White corn syrup is usually the recommended glucose source for low blood sugar episodes. It is a good idea to put in a medical tag which states the health condition of the animal and you and your vet’s contact information in case the dog gets lost.

Visit any local pet shop or a reliable canine website for more on essential diabetes supply kit for canines. Controlling canine diabetes doesn’t have to be very expensive or time consuming—with the right tools and information, you can ensure a happy and well-adjusted animal waiting for you at home.

Can I Give My Dog Aspirin for Pain?

2010-06-13T22:32:00.000-07:00

We all love our dogs—they are our best friends. While we have a lot of fun with them for the most part—many times they are the unfortunate recipients for sicknesses and soreness. It is important that we know what to give them so we don’t administer the wrong medication. Doing so will lead to serious health issues and may even lead to his eventual demise.

There are many kinds of canine disorders that cause pain. Because animals cannot adequately verbalize the nature of their discomfort, we must be familiar with the common ailments that beset them and the safest treatment we can give them. In most cases, dog pain management is usually easily treatable and will not need a serious procedure or surgery.

One of the most asked questions of pet owners is—can I give my dog aspirin for pain? It’s a conventional way to treat pain for us humans and seems harmless enough; but actually he opposite is true. Many pet owners use small quantities of aspirin to treat minor aches and pains—however it will cause long term damage when consistently used therefore it must be avoided at all costs.

There are many alternative medications that you can use to relieve the canine’s suffering. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs are frequently prescribed by vets for dogs in pain. Many times they are taken together with dietary supplements and used for easing arthritic discomfort. NSAIDs like Rimadyl, Etogesic, Novox and Zubrin are predominantly safe, although there are some reported cases of adverse side effects.

Natural and homeopathic remedies are becoming more and more popular in helping alleviate dog pain. There are herbs that have properties that benefit particular body functions so you should look up some of these helpful herbs and incorporate them in the canine’s diet. Many of these natural supplements are available in reliable canine websites.

Over-the-counter prescription drugs designed for pain relief in humans should not be administered to animals. This includes Tylenol, Ibuprofen and Acetaminophen and Advil among others. They contain strong chemicals that are not suited for the canine’s system. Narcotics and steroids are sometimes used for intense pain but you must never attempt to administer these without the approval of a licensed veterinarian.

Not only do these human pain medications contain properties that are toxic to the animal—they will cause serious complications to their health as well. Aspirin thins out the blood in the system. This means that if the dog is experiencing some internal injuries or severe bruising, aspirin will further worsen his condition. So if you’re asking, can I give my dog aspirin for pain? The answer is no.

Take your dog to regular check-ups to the veterinarian. This will ensure that any canine disease he might be suffering from will be detected immediately—preventing further progression. Most illnesses when diagnosed correctly early on will result in great health, improved appearance and disposition. Find out more about your dog’s best health and enjoy a happy and fun-loving dog today!

Dog Grooming

2010-05-29T07:39:00.000-07:00

The reason one should groom his/her dog is simple - your dog's physical state influences the way he feels and the way you look at your dog. Extreme cases, where lack of proper care, cleaning and grooming can directly affect the behavior of your dog, are not rare.

Proper grooming not only infuses a healthy glow to your dog's appearance, but also helps develop his self-esteem; while it makes you a very proud parent, when you show off your Dog to others.

The first step involved in dog grooming is: Brushing!

Brushing has been universally acknowledged by expert dog groomers as the single most important step in grooming.

The benefits of brushing are many. To name a few:

Better blood circulation
Shinier and healthier coat
Better bonding

Get your FREE dog grooming mini course and learn more about brushing and combing and other grooming tools and their applications.

Even if you know how crucial brushing is for your dog's health and well-being, we all know that there is a right way and a wrong way of doing anything. And without doubt, you would like to do everything the RIGHT way when it comes to your dog.

Yes, there's a method to follow while brushing your dog.

Here are FIVE steps to successfully brushing your dog that will prove to be extremely useful:
Brush against the growth of the hair first with a slicker brush and then with a medium or wide-toothed comb.

The slicker brush removes all the loose hair and the comb takes care of the tangles.
Brush your dog along the hair growth and make sure you reach the skin as you brush his way.

Then use a flea comb over the coat to get the fleas and remove any remaining tangles. Part the coat and start from the root and then comb through.

If your dog's paw pads are hairy, then clip them using electric clippers. Do not clip the hair in between the pads. Clip only the excess hair.

Brush your dog's hairs to prevent it from matting. Matting can be a very painful experience.
Regular brushing untangles the matted hairs on your dog's coat. Since this is a risky job to do, the best way out is to prevent them from forming in the first place. And doing this is simple: just brush and comb your Dog regularly. If and when you see any mats or tangles, use a detangle solution and a medium-toothed comb.

Don't wait until your dog is dirty or matted to introduce him to grooming. That would make him associate the experience with unpleasantness. Moreover, many dogs learn to see their routine brushing as an alternate form of petting, i.e. another source of affection and attention.

Subscribe to this FREE dog grooming mini course and start Grooming your Dog all by yourself right from the comfort of your home Today. - Click Here!

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Simple Ways to Cure Dog’s Bad Breath

2010-05-24T05:04:00.000-07:00

Any responsible dog owner knows that taking care of his dog’s teeth will save him the trouble of having to ask a vet look at his pooch’s bad breath. As such, he knows that the care of a dog's teeth should begin the day the dog joins the family as a pet. Worrying about bad breath later on when the problem is already there will cost time and money as the owner looks for a cure for dog bad breath.

However, when the problem strikes our favorite pet, there is no cause for alarm because there are simple ways to cure dog’s bad breath. Here are just some of them.

First, make sure to brush your dog's teeth. Many pet stores now market different types of pet toothbrushes that can be purchased at a local pet store. Also, the same store may actually sell a pet toothpaste. Most pet stores sell flavored toothpaste that a dog will like. These types of toothpaste are available in a variety of flavors such as beef, liver and chicken. By using these flavored toothpastes, a dog will look forward to getting his teeth cleaned as it looks forward to the toothpaste as some kind of a treat.

Although it is nice to have the dog’s teeth cleaned daily, it would be good to brush its teeth only for 2 to 3 times per week. And a dog may not enjoy getting its teeth brushed at first and may put up a bit of a resistance, it will get used to the habit through time though.

Brushing its teeth employs some kind of a routine. When the dog's mouth is now opened, brush its teeth by using a circular or back and forth motion. Also, it is important to get to the back teeth too and brush it well enough.

Second, the cure may actually be found in its food. In our desire to make our dog happy and well-fed, we buy the canned dog food that it has loved to eat. However, this type of food is idea for the growth of plaque and bacteria that causes bad breath in our dog. So, it is actually better to feed the dog dry food. Although an owner may not want to take out canned dog food for good since it is more palatable, but he should make sure that the dog gets an adequate amount of dry food in his diet to help remove plaque and keep the teeth healthy.

Third, keep the dog away from the table. We should not feed our dog scraps from our table food. Although a dog may love it because it sure tastes good to him, but this dog may actually not be good for him. Besides some sticky food such as liver and butter get stuck in the teeth for hours. This causes the growth of bacteria which causes bad breath in our dog.

Finally, it might actually help if we give special kinds of food to our dog. For one, there is an available science diet called T/D in the market. Other than feeding the dog, it is specially designed to eliminate the tartar while the dog chews. As the dog bites, the teeth drive into the T/D which has a rough texture. This scraping motion cleans the teeth.

These are but simple ways to cure dog’s bad breath.

How to Diagnose Bad Breath in Dogs

2010-05-24T04:19:00.000-07:00

When a dog owner detects a strong unpleasant smell in his dog’s breath, it would be best if he brings his animal to the nearest vet clinic. This way, he is sure that the animal is given the best care that a medical professional such as a vet can provide. If the cause is known to be very serious, he must not make the mistake to try treating his dog by himself or else he might actually worsen the condition of the animal. It would be best to have the vet check out the bad breath in dogs. For sure, his diagnosis will be more accurate.

A vet’s diagnostic procedure will most likely take several steps before he determines the cause of the dog’s foul smelling breath. As a start, the vet will ask the dog owner for a record of the dog’s animal history. He will check through this medical history for any possible illness that may have came back to cause the bad breath in the dogs. Keeping this in mind, it surely helps if the owner keeps a tab on his pet’s medical history. The doctor will be helped by this record to make an accurate diagnosis.

Next, the vet will conduct a thorough complete oral examination of the animal. In most cases, the cause of the bad smell will be in the mouth. So the vet will most likely make his first examination in this area to check for rotten tooth or any abscesses. In most cases, abscesses are results of germs and bacteria that pile up in the area between the teeth. If it is discovered that an abscess is causing the bad breath, this would have to be remedied in the soonest possible time. Once this has been cured, then the bad breath will go away. This might involve extracting the pus from the cavity. For this purpose, a mild and brief anesthetic may come in handy. After this, an antibiotic might be used to make sure that the problem is solved for sure.

It is important for the vet to thoroughly examine the dog’s mouth for every possible sign of infection or any other abnormality. He might have to go through the dog’s gums through periodontal probing. Periodontitis is an inflammation in the dog’s gums. It may be caused by several things but it can only be said to be the sure cause of bad breath in dogs through periodontal probing. This would involve checking the animal’s gums for any swelling or inflammation.

Also, the entire mouth may be subjected to a full x-ray to be able to discover the real cause of the dog’s bad breath. The x-ray will only be suggested if the vet thinks that a more serious reason is behind the animal’s bad breath.

In some instances, more complicated reasons outside of the mouth region may cause the bad breath in dogs. As such, the vet will examine for other signs such as in the lungs or kidney areas. In some cases, diabetes in dogs can also result in bad breath. If the medical examination of the dog’s mouth takes out the possibility of any oral cause then the bad breath in dogs may be caused by a more serious problem in the organs of the animal. If that is so, then he will have to conduct a more thorough check up.

What Do You Know About Dog Arthritis Treatment?

2010-05-11T03:16:00.000-07:00

Arthritis is a disease we hope not to ever encounter. The good thing is - we humans can take certain measures to lessen the risk of us having to suffer through this. Unfortunately, it is also a prevalent condition that attacks the canine population. What is it and what can we do about it? Read on to find out more about arthritis in dogs and the best ways we can do to handle it for our pets.

Many times arthritis is caused by old age. Like humans, our dogs will get more fragile as they get older, thus the bones and joints are more prone to aches and pains. Occasionally, genetic disorders aggravate the animal’s condition. Sometimes, an injury will initiate a number of bone complications that result in diseases leading up to arthritis. A lot of times though, it is the larger breeds that are in danger of contracting arthritis because their weight and more inactive lifestyle.

One of the best preventive measures to take for dog arthritis is maintaining an excellent diet and good exercise regimen. I do not mean you have to set up a dog training camp. A simple walk around the block a few times daily will do a lot in preventing more serious health problems. The best dog arthritis treatment is never having to use one - meaning prevention is the key to keeping arthritis away.

Extreme weight in a canine will put unnecessary strain on the joints and bones; hence, regular exercise is an integral part in averting arthritis (and exercise also has other health benefits as well). A diet rich in mineral and vitamins is also important to build up the canine’s immune system and keep him in his proper weight. Look for supplements that have minerals that help improve the cartilage or joint condition of the dog.

You can also make it easier for your pet if they have a comfortable and soft bed they can get to whenever possible. An old, worn mattress of at least four inches is ideal. Also, make regular physical check-ups with the vet to see if there are any changes in the dog’s health you should know about. Remember, early detection is key in keeping diseases at bay.

Now, if your pet is already suffering from arthritis, it’s alright. There are medications and natural remedies that are effective in treating the canine. Find out the particular arthritis he has so you can administer the proper dog arthritis treatment. Always verify with the vet with regard to any therapies you decide to put him on.

You will recognize arthritis in dogs by the change of his behavior. A sluggish and unresponsive dog should raise a red flag. Any pain or reluctance in being touched; as well as difficulty in mobility is a sure sign that something is wrong with the dog. Visit the vet immediately when you see these symptoms in your pet. You can ensure his best health by being vigilant and careful - especially with the older he gets.

Motivating Your Dog

2010-01-09T21:06:00.000-08:00

Right now is the perfect time to get that dog motivated to learn better manners. Your dog may need that extra push to learn how to be a well-behaved dog. And the good news is that it is possible to motivate your dog and help your dog pass his/her obedience training!

Just like people, pets sometimes need that extra attention or shove in the right direction when they need to do something they really are not that interested in doing. Dogs do not care if they dig up your nicest flowers. It is fun for them and if you do not intervene, they will not stop. Dogs are motivated to do things a lot like people-by rewards, praise and building trust.

Rewards are often the easiest way to motivate your pooch into obedience. It is often hard to keep the attention of your dog. During obedience training, dogs become easily distracted. It is important to keep your dog’s training fun and interesting. Giving your dog rewards throughout the training session and at different times will help keep your dog focused and motivated. A random stimulus that your dog understands as positive is a great way to keep your dog ready for the next command.

After your dog has performed a request for you, that is the time to offer a positive reward. Rewards for dogs do not always have to come in the form of doggie treats either. Your dog will love a gently pat on the head or a rub on the belly. After a long training session, you can even reward your dog with a trip to the park or a game of catch. Training sessions can benefit as long as your dog understands that when he or she performs a command, he or she will be rewarded. A reward system is a perfect way to keep your dog ready to learned and motivated during obedience training.

Another way to motivate your dog to do well with obedience training is to stay positive and offer lots of praise. Dogs are very adept at sensing your feelings and emotions. If you are frustrated with your dog for not performing commands well, your dog will sense this. It will be harder to keep your dog motivated when you are not motivated. Your dog will also respond well to praise. The tone of your voice is very important to your dog. Dogs may not understand every word you say, but they understand when you are upset or excited by the way you talk. While you are training your dog, try to stay excited and upbeat. This will encourage your dog to learn commands and perform better for you.

In addition, your body language says a lot to your dog, too. When your dog behaves well and you use direct eye contact to praise your dog, your dog understands that you are happy and pleased.

On the other hand, when you irritated by your dog’s constant jumping, you will look your dog in the eye and speak sternly. Your dog understands that you are upset. If you move quickly towards a shy dog or a dog that feels threaten, the dog becomes upset and scared. When you are training your dog, think about how your body language and tone of voice and motivate your dog.
You can also help your dog stay focused and motivated with obedience training by building a good relationship with your dog.

Dogs are social animals and need the interaction you can provide. Dogs that are often left alone all day or left outside for long periods of time, cannot build up trust with their owner. It is important to understand why your dog is having a behavior problem in the first place and then work together to correct it. It could be that the reason your dog is digging up the flowers is because he or she is bored with being left alone. Perhaps your dog eats shoes in the house because they have separation anxiety, or have a fear of being left alone while you are away. By understanding these reasons you can help your dog overcome obstacles and motivate their way to obedience.

UTI in Dogs

2009-05-16T15:56:00.000-07:00

Urinary tract infection (UTI) is not only common in humans. It is common in dogs, too. This is most common in female dogs because of their short urethra, but UTI in male dogs is also probable, although rarely. In its early stages of development, UTI in dogs may not necessarily be harmful and may not exhibit obvious signs. In addition, urinary tract infection in some dogs may resolve itself within a span of time even without medical intervention. But if UTI in dogs is not treated for a long period of time, it may cause further infection and damage to the dog’s urinary system.

Dogs do not have the gift of speech and, therefore, cannot tell their human owners that they are suffering from a discomfort. As an owner, it is up to you to tell if the dog is suffering from a symptom of UTI. Symptoms of UTI in dogs include fatigue, lethargy, fever, bloody urine, a foul-smell in the urine, tenderness of the lower stomach area, constant licking of the genital area, incontinence and urinating in inappropriate places, and straining to urinate. Once any of these signs are noticed, it is wise to bring the dog to the veterinarian.

“Why do UTI in dogs happen?” you may ask. Urinary tract infections occur when bacteria, such as escherichia coli, klebsiella, esterococcus, proteus mirabilis, pseudomonas, and coagulase positive straphylococcus have invaded the dog’s internal urinary system, causing inflammation and infection. Bacteria could enter the dog’s body through contaminated food and water. Similarly, it could enter through the dog’s external urinary openings and extend through the urethra. This instance is known in medical term as ascending UTI. Bacteria can be spread through the dog’s lymphatic system and the blood. If not excreted out of the dog’s body, bacteria can multiply and infect the dog’s bladder, kidneys, urethra, ureter, and prostate gland.

Urinary tract infection is a painful experience for the dog. Now that you have an idea of why and how UTI in dogs happens, it is vital that you take precautionary measures to prevent your dog from contracting another case of dog UTI. Prevention of UTI in dogs is as simple as ABC, as long as you take regular action of the following tips:

• Give your dog ample amount of clean water everyday.
• Give your dog a regular bath, taking note to especially wash its genital area.
• Give your dog a regular dose of homeopathic remedy.
• Wash the dog’s food and water bowl with clean water regularly.
• Regularly take the dog out for a morning or afternoon walk. Exercise can help stimulate its bladder.
• Encourage your dog to urinate regularly. Regular urination is essential to flush out the bacteria that may have accumulated in the dog’s bladder.

Urinary tract infection in dogs can cause a lot of discomfort to the dog. As an owner, it pays when you have an understanding of how this condition happens, as well as how to prevent and treat it. As with other disorders, it is always wise to seek the help of the vet when any of the symptoms arise.

Ways of Preventing Struvite Crystals in Dogs

2009-05-16T15:49:00.000-07:00

Struvite crystals can cause a lot of discomfort to dogs. When left untreated, they can cause urinary infection. In addition, they can form into stones and cause more problems and discomfort to the affected dog.

If you suspect that your dog is suffering from the occurrence of struvite crystals, the best thing you can do is to take your dog to your vet. Your vet can help you determine if your dog indeed has struvite crystals. He can also perform the proper medical procedure needed in order to rid the dog of the presence of these crystals.

The occurrence of struvite crystals is not only frustrating to dogs; it is also upsetting and frustrating to owners. That is why it is essential that as a responsible dog owner, you know ways of preventing struvite crystals in your dog.

There are several ways to prevent struvite crystals from interfering with your dog’s health. We have listed some of these ways below.

1. Ensure that your dog is drinking enough clean water every day. Clean water prevents the formation of struvite crystals in the dog’s bladder and also flushes out harmful bacteria that may accumulate in your dog’s urinary system. Filtered water is best for your dog. Avoid giving it tap water as tap water may contain harmful chemicals that are not good for your dog’s health.

2. Avoid giving your dog commercial food or at least lessen the amount of commercial food that you are feeding your dog. Commercial food may contain chemicals and may have properties that can cause the formation of struvite crystals. Instead of giving your dog commercial food, why not feed your dog homemade dog food? Homemade dog food can be made especially by you; therefore you can be sure that the food the dog is eating is indeed safe and free from any contamination of harmful chemicals or organisms.

3. Avoid giving your dog foods which contain excessive amounts of protein. Too much protein can alter the pH level of your dog’s urine, leading to the formation of struvite crystals.

4. Ensure that your dog gets enough exercise regularly. You can do this by taking your dog out for a walk everyday. Exercise can help regulate his urination pattern and can lead to a healthier bladder. Moreover, exercise can help alleviate stress in dogs. It can also boost the dog’s overall good health.

5. Encourage your dog to have a regular urination pattern.

6. Give your dog a dose of homeopathic remedy every day. Homeopathic remedies can boost the dog’s overall health by strengthening its immune system. These remedies are completely safe so you do not have to worry that your dog might suffer from any unwanted side effects.

Preventing the manifestation of struvite crystals in your dog can be easy if you take proper care of your pet. The steps given above are easy to administer and can be helpful in promoting your dog’s good health. Rather than watching your dog suffer from the constant recurrence of struvite crystals and constantly taking him to the vet for medication, take the necessary steps in preventing the occurrence of crystals in the first place. Your dog will thank you!

Canine Frequent Urination

2009-05-16T15:39:00.000-07:00

Being aware of your dog’s daily habits is one way of telling if your dog is suffering from a disorder. If you notice that your dog starts to have frequent urination than his usual habit, he may be suffering from a case of urinary tract infection (UTI).

Urinary tract infection in dogs can be curable but they should not be taken for granted. Leaving the disease untreated may cause further harm and result to life-threatening complications in the dog. It is important that as a dog owner, you know what to do in case of canine frequent urination and urinary tract infection.

Frequent urination in canine which is not caused by a behavioral problem may be caused by urinary tract infection. Urinary tract infection at its advanced stage could result to kidney failure and eventually, take the dog’s life. Owners should be aware of the following signs of UTI in their dog.

• Lethargy. If the dog seems to be extra exhausted at the end of each day and seems to have a tender lower stomach area, chances are the dog may be suffering from urinary infection.

However, these signs may mean other things aside from UTI; therefore, the owner must look for other tell-tale signs that could point to UTI as the cause of the dog’s lethargic behavior.

• Constant licking of the genital region. It is not common for dogs to constantly lick their genital region unless they feel pain in that area. Pain in that area may signal an infection so as a responsible owner, you should be wary of this warning sign in your dog.

• Foul-smelling urine. When bacteria have accumulated in the dog’s urine and have caused infection, they change the urine’s concentration and create a foul smell in the urine. Foul-smelling urine is a sign of UTI.

• Blood in the dog’s urine. When there is blood in the dog’s urine, the dog may be suffering from infection in its advanced stage. It is best to bring the dog to the vet immediately to save the dog from going through further discomfort brought about by the infection.

When any of these signs are noticeable in your dog aside from its unusual frequent urination habit, seek the help of the vet as soon as possible. The dog may be in need of medical attention.
Once the vet has made the necessary examinations on the dog and has determined UTI to be the cause of the problem, the vet may likely give the dog antibiotics to stop canine frequent urination. Antibiotics are the treatment commonly used in dogs suffering from UTI.

However, antibiotics may have side effects on the dog and may not treat the condition for good. They only stop the symptoms but do not kill the bacteria causing the infection. Therefore, a reoccurrence of the disease may happen. The best thing for an owner to do is to give the dog homeopathic remedy. Homeopathic remedy can kill the bacteria causing frequent urination in canine and prevent the infection from reoccurring. The effectiveness of homeopathic remedy has been clinically tested and proven to be sompletely safe. Giving your dog a dose everyday would help it stay in top shape.

Dog Bad Breath - Hydrogen Peroxide

2009-05-16T08:40:00.000-07:00

As kids, almost everyone had a run-in with hydrogen peroxide. Occasionally, even as adults we still find the need for this antiseptic. But these instances were to clean sores or wounds that we got while playing around. This was done to make sure that we were protected from nasty infections. So it is a bit controversial to hear about our handy antiseptic being used as a breath freshener. But many dog owners are using it exactly to cure their dog’s bad breath problem.

If this trend continues then it is highly possible to see in our local pet store tucked in its shelves a brand name called DOG BAD BREATH HYDROGEN PEROXIDE. But before anyone rushes to the nearest store for this medicine they better study this compound better or ask their vet about it. This way, they are better informed if ever they do seriously consider using hydrogen peroxide to treat their pet’s bad breath.

First of all, what causes bad breath? Bad breath results when the concentration of anaerobic bacteria in the dog’s mouth grows out of proportion because of poor hygiene. These anaerobic bacteria are normally found in the mouth of most animals, humans and dogs included. It is when dog owners neglect to clean their dog’s mouth regularly that these bacteria become too numerous in the dog’s mouth. This alone should be enough to convince every dog owner to make sure that they regularly brush their dog’s teeth with a pet toothpaste.

Second, how does bad breath develop from these bacteria? It is pretty simple really. The bacteria which have been left alone eat the food particles that accumulate in the dog’s teeth and gums. After this happens, the bacteria will then release compounds that are mainly sulfuric and then will mix with the air and these results in bad breath.

So why do some dog owners use hydrogen peroxide to treat their pet’s foul breath? Most dog owners value this compound to clean their dog’s mouth not because of any wound that they may blame for their dog’s foul breath. Rather, they are valuable in treating bad breath because they add to the concentration of oxygen in the mouth.

Anaerobic bacteria are unable to survive in an environment that is loaded with oxygen. Since hydrogen peroxide is loaded with oxygen it manages to do away with the excess bacteria in the dog’s mouth. Then the sulfuric compounds responsible for the bad breath also disappear from the dog’s mouth. This results in a fresher breath for the dog.

It is very important though that only hydrogen peroxide with less than 1.5% concentration is used. This is not one instance where a stronger concentration will do the trick. In this case, if a too strong hydrogen peroxide is used then chances are it will destroy the enamel in the teeth, leading to tooth decay.

Are there any side effects? Yes! It causes vomiting in the dog though it is not really very serious.
With this in mind, it is more practical to use mouth rinses that can easily be mixed into the dog’s water. They are known to be safe and tolerable to the dog. So before anyone thinks of using dog bad breath hydrogen peroxide on their pet, they better use some other safer product in the pet store.

this article contributed by Melissa Simmonds

Homemade Dog Biscuit Recipes

2009-05-16T08:35:00.001-07:00

Homemade dog biscuits have become popular among many dog owners not only because they cost less but also because they are sure to be safe. So it is quite natural to see pet lovers going through the web in search of homemade dog biscuit recipes.

The following are some of biscuits that any dog will surely enjoy.

Humane Society Recipe

Ingredients:

1/2 cup cornmeal

6 tbsp Oil

2 cups whole wheat flour

2/3 cup water or broth

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix all ingredients together well. Roll out to 1/4 inch thick. Cut into desired shapes with a cookie cutter. Bake for 35-40 minutes. Leave it to cool and store in tightly sealed container.

People and Dog Biscuits

Things Needed:

large bowl

small bowl

rolling pin

3 1/2 cups flour

2 cups rye flour

1 cup corn meal

2 cups cracked wheat

1/2 cup dry milk

4 t. salt

1 envelope active dry yeast

1/4 cup very warm water

2 to 3 cups chicken broth or other liquid

1 large egg, beaten w/1 T. milk

cookie sheets

Mix flours, cracked wheat, corn meal, dry milk, and salt in large bowl. Sprinkle yeast over warm water and stir in small bowl and add the yeast and 2 cups of broth to the dry ingredients. Mix well with hands. The dough will be very stiff. If necessary, add a little more broth. Roll out dough on floured surface to 1/4" thickness and cut into desired shapes or squeeze into shapes. Place on ungreased sheets and brush with egg/milk mixture. Bake for 45 minutes at 300 degrees. Turn off oven and leave in the oven for overnight. If desired, substitute water that was left from the veggies for broth.

Peanut Butter Cookies

4 1/2 cups flour

1 1/3 cups cornmeal

6 Tablespoons peanut butter

1 cup applesauce (with one batch, I just pureed a regular raw apple)

2 eggs

1/2 cup milk

1/4 cup sunflower or sesame seeds, optional

1 egg for basting

Mix all the dry ingredients. Add peanut butter, milk, eggs and applesauce. Mix well until dough is firm. Let it stand for 15-20 minutes. While waiting, set the oven at 350 degrees. Roll out the dough on floured surface to a 1/4" thickness. Cut into shapes with a cookie cutter. Baste with egg and then sprinkle with seeds, if desired. Bake to 30 to 40 minutes. Cool on wire racks. This makes approximately 4 dozen biscuits, depending on the cut size.

Crunchy Biscuits

5 T bouillon - any flavor dissolved in 3 C boiling water, or 3 C meat drippings (bring to a boil before adding other ingredients)

2 C oatmeal

1/2 C oil1 C wheat or oat bran

1/2 C honey (optional)

2 eggs

6 - 8 C white or wheat flour

Add oatmeal, oil, bran and honey to liquid while still hot. Carefully add eggs so they don't cook in lumps. Mix in flour gradually until dough is stiff. Roll out. Cut w/ cookie cutters. Bake on cookie sheet at 325 degrees for one hour. Turn off the oven, allow biscuits to remain in the oven overnight. They will be hard and crunchy. Store in a paper bag or cardboard box. Do not store in an air tight container.

These are just some sample homemade dog biscuit recipes that can be found on the web.

Homemade Dog Treats and Onion Toxicity

2009-05-16T08:31:00.000-07:00

Homemade dog treats have become a sort of a fad nowadays due to the hidden dangers that were discovered in commercial dog foods. So it is very easy to find recipes for dog treats online.
Although finding these so-called recipes online is very convenient for the busy dog owner, he must be on the lookout for unhealthy ingredients. Dog treats must contain foodstuffs that will keep the dog full in the stomach as well as safe from any danger.

This article will help to open the mind of every dog owner on the hidden danger of a common household foodstuff that is commonly given to the dog without thinking of its health effects. This dangerous foodstuff is none other than the onion.

This is not meant to scare anyone from eating the onion. It is perfectly safe for humans but for dogs it can cause a medical condition known as hymolitic anemia. This is an unknown fact unlike the danger of feeding chocolate to dogs. So it is natural to hear of pet lovers having given their dogs leftovers containing onions such as pizza, burgers and even the gravy.

Although taking a small amount of onion may not produce any ill effect on the dog’s health, still it can lead to a life-threatening hemolytic anemia. How does onion toxicity come about?

Dogs have red blood cells that carry the protein hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is very important because it delivers oxygen to the tissues and organs. However, onions contain a substance called thiosulphate which dogs and cats have difficulty to properly digest because they do not have the right enzyme to break it down. Thiosulphate causes oxidation of hemoglobin in the dog’s red blood cells. It then forms clumps that weaken the cell membranes. These clumps, called Heinz bodies, stick out from the cell and eventually cause rupture. In the end, it shortens the life span of the cell. Anemia results when enough red cells are destroyed as the body begins to starve oxygen. Another foodstuff that contains thiosulphate is garlic although it comes in smaller amounts.

If the amount of red blood cells decreases significantly then many health problems can come about. One of which is heart failure. It is important to mention that the number of red blood cells which is destroyed usually depends on the amount of onion that has been eaten by the dog.

However, some dogs can develop very serious reactions even after eating very little amount of onion. Small amounts of onion fed over a period of time can create illness just as a one-time dose can because the Heinz bodies can build up over time. On the other hand, some minor cases of onion toxicity may go undetected because it only results in a slight damage to the red blood cells. Sometimes, it may take several days before symptoms begin to be noticed.

What are the symptoms of Onion Toxicity?

Some of the obvious symptoms of onion toxicity are the following: weakness and lethargy, vomiting and diarrhea, difficulty breathing, pale or bluish gums, bloody urine, jaundice, decreased appetite, and increased heart rate. It can also lead to the death of the dogs if the dog eats a lot of the onion.

Keeping the danger of onions in mind, homemade dog treats must not contain any onion, even in only small amounts.

Healthy Homemade Dog Food Recipes for a Dog With Allergies

2009-05-16T08:28:00.000-07:00

If your dog has the misfortune of having allergies then it important to find healthy homemade dog food recipes that will help control its itch. There are some recipes that contain ingredients that help control its desire to itch. But before trying on any of these recipes, it is important that it is brought to the vet to find out what is causing the allergy in the dog. If the cause of the allergy is not based on food then these recipes may actually help control the itch. But if the cause is diagnosed to be based on any food stuff then be on the lookout for these ingredients and be sure not to include them in any homemade dog food.

One of the safe recipes for dogs with allergies has the following ingredients: 3 lbs ground beef, 3-16oz cans of tomatoes, 2 cups corn meal (white or yellow), 2 cups Wheatena, 3 eggs, Up to 2 cups water as needed. The procedure for the preparation is as follows: Mix the ingredients together as you would a regular meat loaf, then bake in a loaf pan in a pre-heated 345 degree oven for 45 to 50 minutes. Feed when cold. It might help to add some suitable multi-vitamin supplement.

Feed this diet for a month and compare the dog's condition at the end of the month to see if the dog food has been beneficial or not to the dog with allergies. Make sure to stay away from salt as adding too much salt has been associated with outbreaks of skin irritation. Dogs with persistent dry skin and skin irritations might well benefit by being given purified low sodium water to drink.

Another dog owner who owns a dog with allergies was kind enough to share healthy homemade dog food recipes that worked for her. She prepared a stew with only lean chicken meat and potatoes as ingredients. She fed this food to her dog as a start and managed to observe that her dog’s condition began to improve. After this, she started to include vegetables and barley into the stew. Through time, she was able to take her dog out of commercial dog foods and only served the dog with this mixture of this homemade dog food. Not only did it solve the allergy, also it helped to keep her dog healthy and energetic.

It has also been found that venison is a type of meat that is allergy-free for the dog. It might help to prepare a homemade recipe that uses this type of meat. Also, duck is known to be hypoallergenic or free from allergens, the chemicals that cause allergies. It might also be helpful to the dog if a homemade recipe will incorporate or be solely based on duck meat.

Although a bit expensive than chicken, turkey are known to be helpful to dogs with allergies. A simple homemade recipe will simply call for ground turkey rolls, carrots and green beans. Mix these three together and feed them to the dog. Dogs are known to love this food.

These are just some helpful tips that will help a dog that is suffering from itchiness brought by allergies. Before anyone tries them though, it helps if they are housed in a clean environment. For all we know, the allergy is brought simply by dirt in the house.

Causes of a Dog's Bad Breath

2009-05-16T08:25:00.000-07:00

The smell of a dog's breath may not be the best smelling scent that anyone may come across. Nonetheless, wait till he smells a dog's bad breath. By then he would have compared both and would undoubtedly prefer the normal aroma of a dog's breath to its nasty counterpart. Apart from its foul smell, bad breath in our fave canine is usually an indicator that something is not right with our beloved house pet. Generally, it shows the way to a lurking health problem that our dog may have. What follows is a list of possible causes of the foul smell in our pet.

The usual cause of bad breath in dogs is tooth decay. As many pet owners fail to take care of their canine friend's dental hygiene, it is but inevitable that they lose some of their teeth through some nasty tooth decay. As such, whenever the foul smell starts to rear its ugly smell, it is best to check your dog for any rotten teeth that is usually caused by plaque. If the pet owner is aversive to checking the dog's mouth on their own, it would be best to have the veterinarian check the dog's mouth for any plaque or rotten teeth.

At times, our dogs go through the garbage and end up eating some of our house's refuse. If this happens then it is inevitable for bad breath to occur in our dog's mouth. However, it would not take too long because in a few hours, these garbage passes through its stomach and intestines. Nonetheless, to take out the possibility of our dog eating garbage, it would be best to keep this out of our dog's paws and mouth. That way, we avoid the possibility of our dog developing something more serious other than bad breath.

In some cases, a simple foreign object getting stuck in between our dog's teeth can cause bad breath. This is highly possible given that our dog eat anything that they fancy to be attractive. In some serious cases, these foreign objects cause abscessed tooth or infections in their mouth. Both of which can cause bad breath if not properly treated. Likewise, if in doubt, it would be best to have a vet check our dog's teeth if we cannot handle it ourselves. In the long run, this might prove to be more sensible inasmuch as infections may be best handled by medical professionals.

More importantly, a dog's bad breath can be resolved by simply taking care of our dog's dental health. We can save up on trouble and the cost of veterinary services if we simply buy a regular dog toothbrush to clean both our dog's teeth as well as scrape accumulating dirt in its tongue. It would not cost as much as the bill we may rack up if our pet gets sick and ends up in the vet.

Also, it is important to get toothpaste that will do the trick. Keep in mind that human toothpaste will not help get rid of the dirt in the dog's mouth. Generally, it will simply be swallowed together with the toothpaste. It would be best to buy dog toothpaste as they are readily available in the market. With these two handy tools, it would not be long before our favorite pet gets a sparkling smile and nice breath.

- this article contributed by Melissa Simmonds

Dog Breath as a Health Sign

2009-05-16T07:41:00.000-07:00

A foul smelling dog breath can be taken as a sign of a health problem that needs to be cured as soon as possible. If left unchecked, such a problem can be a major headache for a dog owner especially if it hits a puppy. A puppy with bad breath would not be cute to play because its foul breath will surely be a major turn off for its owner.

Bad breath in puppies can be worse to treat compared to that in adult dogs because of the young dog’s playful nature. However, all it would need is an owner with the patience as well as the knowledge as to how to address such a problem. Having said that, it would be important to know the possible health problems that cause canines to develop such a problem.

Although the causes of bad breath in dogs can be varied and may range from simple to the complex, in most cases its cause is simply rotten teeth. If its rotten teeth that is causing the bad breath then its simple root is plaque or tartar. Plaque and tartar are deposits of germs and bacteria in the dog’s teeth. This is simply a result of poor hygiene on the part of the owner.

As a result, its solution is very simple, namely, improved hygiene. All it would take is simply clean the dog’s teeth regularly. To do so, a pet toothbrush and toothpaste will do the trick. It must be said though that human toothpaste should not be used to clean the dog’s teeth and mouth. The dog will simply swallow the toothpaste. If this happens then the problem will only be transferred into the dog’s internal organs. To be able to escape this problem, buy a pet’s toothpaste as it is especially designed to solve pet health problems.

Another possible root of bad breath in dogs may be an infection in the mouth either in the gums or in the tooth area. In many cases, dogs eat garbage and feces or wastes. Because of this, they have the tendency to develop abscesses that are full of bacteria. Considering that this is more serious than a rotten tooth, it would need the assistance of a vet who would have to use antibiotics to solve the problem.

The vet may find out that the dog is suffering from gingivitis or the inflammation of the animal’s gums or periodontitis or an inflammation in the tissue surrounding the tissue in the tooth. Either way both can be remedied by a professional such as a vet. It would be best not to provide medication without the help of the vet or it might worsen the problem instead of solving it.

Other more serious causes of bad breath in dogs can range from lung cancers to severe kidney problems as well as bleeding stomach ulcer. Having said this, it is best to take bad breath as a warning sign of serious diseases in our favorite animal. It should not left alone or else it would cause the problem to become worse. Dog breath should be seen as part of the animal’s overall health not just as part of its hygiene. If we keep this in mind then there is no reason for the dog not develop into a happy and healthy animal.

Homemade Dog Treats

2009-04-28T00:05:00.000-07:00

and some sample Homemade Dog Biscuit Recipes ...

Peanut Butter Cookies - one of many Homemade Dog Biscuit Recipes that people can enjoy with their dogs!

4 1/2 cups flour
1 1/3 cups cornmeal
6 Tablespoons peanut butter
1 cup applesauce (with one batch, I just pureed a regular raw apple)
2 eggs
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup sunflower or sesame seeds, optional
1 egg for basting

Mix all the dry ingredients. Add peanut butter, milk, eggs and applesauce. Mix well until dough is firm. Let it stand for 15-20 minutes. While waiting, set the oven at 350 degrees. Roll out the dough on floured surface to a 1/4" thickness. Cut into shapes with a cookie cutter. Baste with egg and then sprinkle with seeds, if desired. Bake to 30 to 40 minutes. Cool on wire racks. This makes approximately 4 dozen biscuits, depending on the cut size.

Crunchy Biscuits - a wonderful recipe for homemade dog biscuits

5 T bouillon - any flavor dissolved in 3 C boiling water, or 3 C meat drippings (bring to a boil before adding other ingredients)
2 C oatmeal
1/2 C oil
1 C wheat or oat bran
1/2 C honey (optional)
2 eggs
6 - 8 C white or wheat flour

Add oatmeal, oil, bran and honey to liquid while still hot. Carefully add eggs so they don't cook in lumps. Mix in flour gradually until dough is stiff. Roll out. Cut w/ cookie cutters. Bake on cookie sheet at 325 degrees for one hour. Turn off the oven, allow biscuits to remain in the oven overnight. They will be hard and crunchy. Store in a paper bag or cardboard box. Do not store in an air tight container.

These are just some sample homemade dog biscuit recipes that can be found on the web.

For 180 more delicious homemade dog food recipes - click here!

Dog Urinary Tract Infections

2009-02-28T04:44:00.000-08:00

Dog urinary tract infections are common among 14% of the dog population in the entire world. The main culprits behind dog urinary problems are often various bacteria that have infiltrated the dog's body. Bacteria enter the dog's internal system through the food it eats and the water it drinks everyday. In some instances, bacteria gain access to the dog's urinary system through its external urinary openings. This is most common in female dogs because they have shorter urethra than their male counterparts, making it easier for bacteria to penetrate.

Dog urinary tract infections occur in the bladder and urinary tract where urine forms and is excreted out of the body. A mild case of infection is not easy to detect. That is why in most cases, dogs are treated only when the infection is already on its advanced stages.

There are two classifications of urinary tract infections in dogs. One is upper urinary tract infection and the other is lower urinary tract infection. These two kinds of dog urinary problems produce different signs and symptoms. Upper urinary tract infection is usually associated with weight loss, anorexia, and vomiting. On the other hand, lower urinary tract infection is associated mostly with abnormalities and incontinence or a change in the dog's urinating pattern.

The most effective way to tell if your dog is suffering from a urinary tract infection is to observe your dog's urinating habits. Check if your dog has enough urine every time he urinates. If you notice that your dog has to make several attempts before he can excrete urine from his body, the chances are your dog is suffering from urinary problems. A worst scenario is your dog not being able to urinate at all. In this instance, you have to take your dog to the veterinarian immediately as he may already be suffering from a serious case of bladder problem.

Another way to tell if your dog is showing signs of dog urinary problems in their early stages is to observe your dog while taking him out for a walk. Any sign of irregularity, such as cringing in pain, may be a sign that your dog has urinary problems. Foul-smelling urine, blood in the urine, tender bladder, and a reduction of the amount of the dog's urine are signs that you should bring your dog to the veterinarian immediately. If left untreated, your dog could suffer from a more severe case of infection and eventually die.

Although dogs are bound to suffer from urinary problems in any given time of their life, it is still important that owners know how to at least minimize the possibilities of their dog contracting such a disease. Some of the ways to prevent this from happening are the following: giving your dog plenty of clean water to drink everyday, giving your dog a regular bath and shampoo, giving your dog proper nutrition and diet, bringing your dog to the vet regularly for check-ups, and giving your dog citrus juices and other sources of vitamin C.

Clean water is essential as it helps flush out unwanted organisms and bacteria from the dog's body. Proper nutrition and diet also helps to keep your dog healthy. Bringing your dog to the vet for regular check-ups helps to determine early signs of dog urinary problems and thus minimize the chances for bacteria to cause greater harm to your dog's internal system. Citrus juices lessen the presence of bacteria by making your dog's urine acidic. Vitamin C helps to keep your dog in top shape by strengthening his immune system.

Dog urinary tract infections are life threatening for dogs. However, they are highly curable. The most important thing is that as a dog owner, you are able to suppress the growth of the infection by knowing its different signs and symptoms.

Find out more about treating dog urinary tract infections with holistic remedies by clicking here.

Dog Licences - Why?

2008-12-04T13:17:00.000-08:00

With pet ownership, it seems like there is a number of things you must do just to keep a pet in your home. When required to license their beloved pooches, many owners ask “why.” What’s the point in licensing a dog? Although it may seem like a money-making technique, licensing is important for a dog, the owner, and the rest of the community. Here’s a few reasons why licensing is important for your pet.

The history of dog licensing has been traced back to the 1700s, so it’s not a new requirement. Dog licensing was first enacted to protect the livestock of farmers. Many dogs roamed free, often getting into trouble with sheep. Farmers needed a way to be reimbursed for their livestock when a dog wreaked havoc on the farm. Eventually, cities started requiring animal owners to register their dogs. They had to submit their information, along with information describing their pet, to a local government office. If a farmer had problems with a dog, he could give a description to the office and be reimbursed for his damages.

Now, dog licensing is a way to protect the animal instead of a way to safeguard livestock. Instead of merely describing your dog to an animal control office, you must provide certain paperwork. In return, you receive a dog tag that identifies your pet and you as the owner. Hence, benefit number one: your dog carries your contact information. If he gets lost or picked up by animal control, he is more likely to be returned to you. You may not even have to go to look for him at the shelter if things are handled appropriately! The same is true if your dog is injured. Perhaps he escapes from his pen while you are away at work. If he gets in a fight with another dog or finds his way into the street, you can feel a little better knowing that he can be helped, and you can be notified of the situation, before you return home.

Licensing also protects your dog and other people. Areas with known cases of rabies may require that your pet has his rabies vaccination before he is licensed. If he were to bite someone, then you have proof that your licensed pet is rabies free. It can help keep your pooch alive and keep someone from having to undergo rabies treatment.

Many areas require that a dog is licensed, but some areas still do not. You can wager that cities or highly populated areas will require the licensing. The licensing fees vary according to the area, the breed of dog, and whether or not the dog has been spayed or neutered. Often, the fee is reduced for fixed dogs. This is a way for animal agencies to encourage animal control and discourage the number of homeless animals. Certain breeds, normally aggressive breeds, are often charged with higher licensing fees and may have to follow additional rules, such as wearing a muzzle when in public and posting “Beware of dog” signs on the property. Dogs are not the only animals that have to be licensed; some areas require cat licensing, too.

If you are in the dark about licensing requirements in your area, then contact a local animal agency or your veterinarian. It’s a good idea to contact them prior to bringing home a pet or shortly after. You normally only have a certain time period to get your dog licensed. After that period, you may incur additional fees. Most areas offer multiple ways to go about licensing, including applying in person, over the Internet, or through standard mail. Before you apply for the license, make sure your pet has had any and all required vaccinations or procedures; it can save you a few dollars and may save you from an application headache!

Licensing a pet may seem a bit over the top, but it is beneficial in many ways. The practice started long ago to protect livestock, and now it protects your pet, you, and the community. To find out if you need to license your pet, contact a local animal agency or your veterinarian. Ask the organization what your pet needs before he can be licensed. Remember, licensing is not free, so also ask about any fees associated with the process. If your pooch ever leaves home, you’ll be glad you got him licensed!

This article was provided by pet-super-store which is an online pet shop featuring patio pet doors and large dog beds.